Itumeleng Khune: Kaizer Chiefs Takes New Decision on Bafana Bafana Legend’s Suspension

Itumeleng Khune: Kaizer Chiefs Takes New Decision on Bafana Bafana Legend’s Suspension

Raphael Abiola
March 6, 2024 at 10:44 AM
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  • Kaizer Chiefs have decided to take a new step concerning Itumeleng Khune's suspension
  • The South African goalkeeper has been suspended from club activities since December
  • AmaKhosi also suspended the Bafana Bafana legend as the club's official captain

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Kaizer Chiefs have taken a new decision on Itumeleng Khune's suspension, which has kept him out of the team since last December.

The South African goalkeeper was stripped and suspended from his place as AmaKhosi's captain three months ago after he allegedly arrived for training under the influence of alcohol.

The Glamour Boys' shot-stopper's suspension didn't stop him from participating in the Carling Black Label Cup in January, as he captained the Carling All-Star XI to the title and won the Man of the Match award.

Kaizer Chiefs released an official statement confirming their decision to lift Khune's suspension after three months, according to a report by iDiskiTimes.

Itumeleng Khune; PSL; Premier Soccer League; Kaizer Chiefs
Itumeleng Khune gestures during the Premier Soccer League match between AmaZulu and Kaizer Chiefs. Photo: Steve Haag.
Source: Getty Images

"Kaizer Chiefs' longest serving player, Itumeleng Khune, has rejoined the team following his separation from his teammates to fulfil certain conditions required of him before he could be allowed back at the Village," the club stated.
"Khune was suspended early in December to allow him to complete a corrective programme designed to meet set expectations for a professional athlete.
"Upon completion of the programme, a report from an independent body of professionals was received and shared with the technical team to demonstrate that he had done all that was required.
"During his three-month absence, Khune says he fully participated in the programmes set out for him and believes they assisted with his personal growth and development as a professional athlete and individual. He looks forward to working hard at training and sharing his knowledge with his teammates."

AmaKhosi also confirmed that they allowed the Bafana Bafana legend to participate as an analyst for SABC during the Africa Cup of Nations 2023.

"In January and February, Kaizer Chiefs also allowed Khune to participate on the panel of SABC Sports analysts during the recent Africa Cup of Nations. The experience gained from the exercise will hopefully benefit his life in future," the club added.
"As Kaizer Chiefs, we welcome Itu back to the home he has known for over 25 years, and we remain committed to our core values of discipline, integrity, respect, and unity."

Khune mulls Chiefs coaching role

Sports Brief earlier reported that Khune was contemplating shifting to coaching within the club’s youth setup.

Sources close to the veteran had indicated that he would not extend his playing tenure, with his contract set to end this season.

Authors
Raphael Abiola photo
Raphael Abiola
Raphael Abiola is a Nigerian Sports Journalist with over five years of experience. He obtained a B.Tech degree in Computer Science from the Federal University of Technology, Akure, in 2015.